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Why is the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act still called temporary when it has been around since 1955?


Updated by MHA

The CL(TP)A has been in force since 1955. The temporary nature of the CL(TP)A refers to the sunset clause which requires the Government to seek Parliament’s endorsement each time it wishes to have the CL(TP)A renewed. The requirement to seek Parliament's endorsement to renew the CL(TP)A every 5 years serves as a safeguard to ensure that the Act is still needed and that it is being applied properly. As MHA’s record of using the Act will come under close scrutiny in Parliament, MHA will have to justify its use of the Act and recommend whether there is still a need for it. The CL(TP)A was last renewed in April 2024, for a period of 5 years from 21 October 2024.

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